What to Expect when Eloping & What Makes it Different from a Big Wedding

Wondering What to Expect When Eloping? 

In today’s world where the pressure for a big, traditional wedding to look or be a certain way is in full effect, weddings have become synonymous with stress and elaborate planning. But there is a growing trend that offers an escape from the chaos.

Enter elopements – intimate ceremonies that focus on the essence of love and connection between two people. For couples seeking a simpler and more meaningful alternative, elopements offer a breath of fresh air.

At Elope Outdoors we intentionally create low-key, relaxing elopements and handle the important planning details for our couples so that they can focus on the fun things like where they want to stay and play while visiting Asheville, North Carolina. In this blog post, we’ll explore why opting for a simple and sweet elopement experience, far from the high-intensity pressure of a big traditional wedding, can be the best choice for your special day.

Embracing Intimacy and Authenticity

Eloping allows you to prioritize the most important aspect of your wedding day: the love between you and your partner. Instead of being overwhelmed by a large guest list, you can focus solely on each other and the promises you’re making. If you are bringing guests, remember to keep in mind their needs, hiking and fitness level, as well as their personality types. If having guests at your elopement presents any stressful elements, consider eloping just the two of you and having a party on a separate occasion with everyone else so that you can keep your elopement day sacred.

Some couples wouldn’t imagine marrying without key family members or parents there, which is understandable, but just be honest with yourself about what you truly want and what would feel the best for you on the elopement day. Try to give guests realistic expectations about what the walk or hike to the ceremony will be like, what the weather conditions could be, and remind them of the limitations of being outdoors like being without restrooms during the ceremony and there not being chairs to sit in. We find that keeping it real helps eliminate any tension or confusion.

Escape the Wedding Stress – for real!

Wedding Planning can often feel like a never-ending to-do list. From selecting venues and catering to seating arrangements and intricate decor, the pressure to have a flawless event can take a toll on couples. Eloping removes the stress of planning a big wedding, offering a sense of freedom and tranquility. Instead of worrying about intricate details, you can focus on enjoying each other’s company and embracing the moment.

Resist the urge to replace the worries of a big wedding with elaborate ideas for your elopement. Leave the big arbor displays at home and tons of decorations – nature is the most beautiful backdrop and you’ve earned the views with your hike.  Allow your photographer to guide you into poses that feel natural and wonderful versus trying to plan and plot every shot.

Take your time at your elopement so you can be present and get wonderful timeless photos, versus worrying about dinner plans for the evening. In a busy world, being present is the best gift you can give each other and yourself.

Personalization and Flexibility

With traditional weddings, there are often expectations to adhere to certain customs or conform to societal norms. Eloping allows you to break free from these expectations and create a ceremony that truly reflects your relationship. Whether it’s writing personalized vows or choosing unique locations, elopements give you the freedom to create a day that is entirely your own.

When writing vows, you don’t have to worry about what a big crowd will think of your words so say whatever is on your heart and don’t feel you have to stick to a specific script or writing style. Lean into what makes your relationship special in your eyes and let yourself speak these words as naturally as you can. Remove the pressure to fit in every single thing you love about them ever and realize simple is best, you have a lifetime to express your love so have fun with it.

Simplify and Save

One of the most practical advantages of eloping is the cost savings it offers. Traditional weddings can come with hefty price tags due to venue rentals, catering expenses, and elaborate decor. By opting for a simple elopement, you can redirect your funds towards experiences that truly matter, such as planning a dream honeymoon or starting your life together with financial security. Elopements are often more budget-friendly, allowing you to focus on the experiences and memories rather than extravagant expenses.

If saving is important to you, be mindful to keep your dress, wedding attire, lodging and other expenses within a reasonable limit so that you aren’t going against plans to save. That being said, make investments in what is important to you like beautiful photography or an all-inclusive elopement package that saves you time and delivers top-quality vendors. Don’t feel the need to try and replace the budget of a big wedding with little things on your elopement!

Choosing to elope is a decision that celebrates love, intimacy, and the beauty of simplicity. By stepping away from the high-intensity pressure of a big traditional wedding, couples can enjoy a more meaningful and stress-free experience. Asheville, NC, with its stunning landscapes, provides an idyllic setting for elopements. Remember, the beauty of an elopement lies in its simplicity and the celebration of love between you and your partner, so take a deep breath and allow it all to unfold naturally.